SAEDNEWS: The refrigerator is an essential household appliance, and most have traditionally been white. However, white and silver fridges show dirt quickly, making them harder to maintain than darker-colored models.
According to the housekeeping section of SaedNews, knowing how to polish your refrigerator’s surface is one of the most common concerns for homeowners. Most refrigerators lose their original shine shortly after purchase, which can negatively impact the overall look of your kitchen. Fortunately, there are effective methods to clean and maintain the shine of both white and silver refrigerators.
Several factors can dull a refrigerator’s finish:
Yellowing over time
Grease stains
Scratches, dents, or surface indentations
Fingerprints, dust, and spills
Even some cleaning products can worsen the issue, so it’s important to choose appropriate cleaning materials to maintain a long-lasting shine.
Use Baking Soda or Diluted Vinegar
The simplest and safest method is spraying a mixture of baking soda and water or diluted vinegar on the fridge surface.
Avoid dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, or harsh acids, as they can damage the finish.
After cleaning, always dry the surface with a soft cloth to prevent streaks.
Toothpaste Method
Apply a thin layer of toothpaste on a soft cloth.
Rub gently over the fridge surface and let it dry for a few minutes.
Spray white vinegar on the dried toothpaste and wipe clean with a damp cloth. This method helps restore shine effectively.
Yellowing often occurs in white refrigerators due to:
Accumulation of grease
Exposure to sunlight
Food residue left on the surface
While yellowing does not affect performance, it makes the fridge look old and unattractive.
Multi-purpose Cleaners
Weak, multi-purpose sprays are effective, but avoid strong acidic cleaners that can damage the color.
Baking Soda and Water Solution
Mix baking soda with water to create a cleaning solution.
For stubborn stains, make a thicker paste and apply it directly to the affected area.
Move decorative magnets weekly and clean underneath.
Avoid direct exposure to sunlight near windows.
Don’t rely on dishwashing liquids for regular cleaning—they may attract more dust.
Use protective covers on fridge handles.
Limit exposure to cooking grease by frying foods outside the kitchen if possible.
Regular weekly cleaning with baking soda, vinegar, or mild cleaners helps maintain a bright surface.
Silver refrigerators are popular for their modern look. To polish them:
Apply a few drops of baby oil on a lint-free cloth and wipe in one direction.
Alternative: use a small amount of olive oil.
You can also use a vinegar-and-water solution or anti-rust cleaners.
Polish with a soft cloth or makeup pad to remove streaks and enhance shine.
White refrigerators require extra care to prevent yellowing:
Lemon juice mixed with water effectively removes stubborn stains.
White alcohol disinfects and acts as a stain remover.
Spray diluted alcohol on the surface and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Grease is a major cause of yellowing:
Mix ½ cup baking soda, 4 cups warm water, and ½ cup bleach.
Apply with a sponge to grease stains.
Let sit for 10 minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.
Scratches reduce shine on stainless steel refrigerators:
Surface scratches can be treated with toothpaste, applied to the scratched area.
After 30 minutes, wipe clean.
Vinegar can also help reduce light scratches.
By following these simple methods, you can keep your refrigerator clean, shiny, and looking new for years, whether it’s white or silver. Regular care not only preserves its appearance but also enhances your kitchen’s overall aesthetic.
